Coach young goalkeepers with confidence first: soft balls, lots of easy catches, and praise for being brave. Teach the ready position, the W-shape catch for balls at head height and the scoop for low balls. At younger ages rotate the keeper role, and give regular keepers outfield time too.
Fear of the ball is normal
Start close with soft or size 3 balls, gentle throws then gentle volleys. Build up only when they're catching most of them. Gloves that fit help, and so does never using the keeper as target practice in drills.
Technique basics
- Ready position: feet shoulder-width apart, on the balls of the feet, hands in front.
- W-catch (thumbs nearly touching) for balls at chest to head height; the diamond shape is a variation of the same idea.
- Scoop or 'basket' for low balls and balls into the stomach.
- Practise: ready position and catch, diving from the knees, and more goalkeeper drills.
Rotate the keeper fairly
At the youngest ages, let everyone have a go. When a player wants to be the regular keeper, still give them outfield time; their feet matter for playing out from the back. The sub planner can rotate the keeper for you.